Description

Osmunda regalis, the Regal Fern, has a wide distribution throughout the Old World including Europe, Africa and SW Asia. It is a dramatic and highly attractive bi-pinnate fern, with lush green pinnae and a broad vigourous habit. Fully hardy throughout the UK winter, it is deciduous and growth - once it recommences again in Spring - is rapid. The tall erect fertile fronds emerge in summer and covered with the brown spore-bearing sori are a strong contrast with the bright green of the sterile fronds.

Osmunda regalis requires a moist location in the shade or semi-shade in a fertile acidic soil. It is an ideal fern to create a lush under-planting in a damp woodland/jungle location.